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Parking for Hotel Guests

Valet parking is available for all Willard InterContinental Washington hotel guests 24 hours a day.

Guests may call for their vehicle at least 20 minutes prior to departure

Overnight valet parking rate is $50.00 and includes unrestricted in and out privileges

The Willard garage vehicle height restriction is 6' 5". Please call the Willard InterContinental at least two days in advance of your arrival to make arrangements for oversized vehicle parking (full-size, covered and RV vans cannot be accepted)

Visitors / Daily Parking

Valet parking is available for Willard InterContinental hotel visitors

Driving Information

License RequirementsIf you wish to drive in the US it is advisable to obtain an International Driver's Permit (IDP). The IDP informs US state officials and law enforcement officers of your driving history and acts as an important secondary form of identification.

An IDP is not a driver's license and must always be accompanied by your valid driver's license from your own country. It is better to obtain an IDP in your own country before departure; however, the Automobile Association of America (AAA) may be able to provide you with an IDP when you get to the US (contact the local AAA branch for details).

Seat BeltsDriver and passenger seat belts are a mandatory requirement in almost all states.

Which Side of the Road?When driving in the US, keep to the right-hand side of the road.

Speed LimitsUrban speed limits are set by state authorities and therefore vary by state. Business or residential areas' maximum speed limits are between 25 mph and 30 mph.

Priority Signals

At an intersection with a set of traffic lights, you may turn right if the road ahead is clear

You may also turn left from one one-way street into another one-way street on a red arrow

If the intersection displays a "NO TURN ON RED" sign, this sign must be obeyed

If you are in any doubt, wait for the signal to turn green and then proceed

If a police officer is directing traffic at a set of traffic signals, obey the officer - not the signals

Freeways / Major Routes

Speed LimitsEven though the US congress passed legislation in 1987, raising the upper speed limit on freeways to 65 mph, in most states this has never been implemented. The maximum speed limit may range from 55 mph to 70 mph on rural interstates. On all other roads and highways, speed limits may range from 25 mph to 55 mph.

TollsMany expressways in the US are toll roads. If you intend using a pay-as-you-drive road, remember to bring enough money for the journey. Also, many toll systems time the length of your journey. If you have traveled too fast on a toll road you may be fined and your license endorsed.

Legal Information

Alcohol LimitsAccording to the US government, most fatal road traffic accidents involve a driver who has been drinking or taking drugs. Driving under the influence of alcohol or prescription drugs may impair normal faculties. The maximum legal alcohol level is 0.08%. This is the case in most states, but some are as low as 0.05% or as high as 0.10%.

FinesThe US runs a points endorsement scheme for road traffic offenses. Endorsements range from six points for major offenses to two points for minor offenses. Endorsements may also carry on-the-spot fines. If you gain a certain number of points, your license may be suspended or canceled.

Emergency NumbersThe emergency telephone number in the US is 911 .

General Information

If you are required to stop by a law enforcement officer:

When safe, pull off the road to the right, clear of traffic

Turn off your engine

Turn your headlights to the parking position and sit calmly

You must follow any lawful order or direction given by any police officer

Be polite and answer questions honestly

All police and law enforcement officers in the US carry guns

It is advisable not to step out of your car until asked to do so by a police officer

Accidents

For personal safety, do not leave your vehicle

Inform the other drivers and witnesses that you wish to proceed directly to a police station or well-lit public place

It is a legal requirement to inform the police of the incident

Do not pick up hitchhikers or stop for a vehicle which seems in distress. Again, telephone the police when the opportunity arises.